Phoenix Tailings
2.6. Chemical Development Engineer II
TLDR
Work with a dynamic team to scale and refine innovative rare earth element extraction and metallization technologies, integrating sustainable practices into critical metals production.
About Phoenix Tailings:
Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly growing clean mining and metals production startup dedicated to sustainable and economic critical metals production. Our mission is to be the world's first fully clean mining and metals production company, producing the resources needed for the next generation of our economy. We are seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer to join our dynamic team and contribute to the design, development, and optimization of innovative critical metals production systems.
Why Phoenix Tailings:
At Phoenix, we believe that nothing great is ever accomplished alone or without the passion of people who push and motivate one another. If you are someone who shares our relentless pursuit of a better future, passion for innovation, and are excited about working with some of the top innovators in the world, then this is the place for you.
Our Values:
● You are only crazy if you are wrong, it’s ok to be wrong
● Lead with Compassion
● Be Resourceful
● Listen
● Hustle
Who We Are Looking For:
Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Development Engineer II to help scale and refine our rare earth element (REE) extraction and metallization technologies. This role is core to accelerating our R&D and deployment of clean, economically viable processes that enable sustainable access to critical materials. As a key member of the technical development team, you’ll have the opportunity to directly shape the future of critical metals infrastructure in the U.S. through deep technical experimentation and innovation.
This pay range reflects the expected compensation for this role and may vary based on experience and qualifications.
Salary Range: $90,000- $130,000/year
Key Responsibilities:
Design and execute laboratory-scale experiments across the rare earth extraction and metallization process flowsheet
Build and validate process models including comprehensive mass and energy balances
Optimize chloride leaching, dissolution, and filtration operations to improve efficiency and product quality
Support the development of advanced separation techniques for REE purification and concentration
Develop robust precipitation processes for conversion of rare earth chlorides into high-purity oxides
Contribute to early-stage metallization process R&D for converting oxides into individual rare earth metals
Analyze experimental data and use findings to drive iterative improvements to the process
Specify and evaluate equipment required for pilot and commercial-scale implementation
Document all research procedures, findings, and recommendations with technical precision
Ensure all experiments and development efforts align with EH&S and sustainability standards
Qualifications:
B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
3–6 years of hands-on experience in process development, hydrometallurgy, or chemical processing
Proficiency in designing experiments and interpreting data to solve complex technical challenges
Demonstrated expertise in solid-liquid separation, precipitation, and chemical extraction techniques
Strong foundation in process engineering including mass and energy balance modeling
Experience with laboratory instrumentation and analytical tools (e.g., ICP-OES, XRD, SEM)
Clear, structured technical writing skills for documentation and reporting
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative R&D environment
Familiarity with rare earth chemistry and metallurgical challenges preferred
Experience with process simulation tools (e.g., HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus) is a plus
We offer a competitive compensation package that is based on expertise. We also offer the following benefits:
Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
Stock Options: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company.
Time Off: Unlimited PTO.
Learning: Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
This pay range reflects best estimate for the total cash compensation which includes salary + discretionary bonus for this role. Total package may vary based on experience and qualifications.
Pay Range: $90,000- $130,000 total cash compensation plus equity
We offer a competitive compensation package based on expertise, including healthcare coverage (100% medical, dental, and vision), stock ownership, parental leave, flexible vacation policy, learning and development opportunities, and a great team culture that values making a difference and encourages results-focused work. At Phoenix Tailings, we have an open culture that values learning and growth, and we are looking for enthusiastic individuals who share our vision of sustainable mining.
Phoenix Tailings, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value diversity at all levels. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other applicable protected characteristics. These characteristics will not be a factor for consideration of any work-related decisions, including but not limited to hiring, firing, compensation, and discipline.
Benefits
Health Insurance
100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
Learning Budget
Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
Paid Time Off
Unlimited PTO.
Stock Options
Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company.
Phoenix Tailings is a clean mining and metals production startup that focuses on sustainable and economically viable methods for extracting critical metals. We cater to industries dependent on these resources, aiming to become the first fully clean company in the sector, delivering the essential materials that support modern technology while prioritizing environmental responsibility.